Governor Shapiro recently requested an increase in funding for student teacher stipends to $40 million. While we applaud this effort, it is simply not enough to fully fund this life-changing program. 
Governor Shapiro should support an increase in funding for student teacher stipends to $50 million. Student Teacher stipends directly address the state's teacher shortage, improves the quality of education, and strengthens the workforce pipeline. Here’s why increasing funding is critical:
1. Combatting Teacher Shortages
2. Reducing Financial Barriers for Future Teachers
3. Improving Educational Outcomes for Pennsylvania’s Students
4. Keeping Teachers in Pennsylvania
5. Bipartisan Support &amp; Public Demand among Voters&nbsp;

You can help! Take two minutes to email your state legislators and ask them to ensure student teacher stipends are fully funded in this year's state budget!

Tell Your Elected Officials to Fully Fund Student Teacher Stipends!

I am writing to urge your support for increasing funding for student teacher stipends to $50 million in Pennsylvania’s budget. This investment is critical to addressing our state’s ongoing teacher shortage and ensuring that aspiring educators can afford to complete their training without undue financial hardship.

As you know, student teaching is an essential part of teacher preparation, yet it remains an unpaid, full-time commitment that places a heavy financial burden on future educators. Many student teachers struggle to cover living expenses while dedicating themselves to the classroom, leading some to take on additional jobs or even abandon the profession altogether. By increasing stipend funding, we can remove financial barriers, attract more talented individuals to teaching, and help maintain a strong and stable educator workforce.

Investing in student teachers today is an investment in Pennsylvania’s future. Quality educators are the foundation of strong schools and thriving communities, and ensuring they have the financial support needed to complete their training will benefit students, families, and the state as a whole.

I urge you to prioritize this funding increase and support the next generation of Pennsylvania educators. Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to your response on this important issue.